As Tottenham Hotspur prepare to host Arsenal in the much-anticipated North London Derby on 15th September, the appointment of referee Jarred Gillett has sparked controversy, particularly among Arsenal supporters.
The Premier League confirmed Gillett as the official for the high-stakes match, but his history with Arsenal has led to widespread concerns.
According to The Mirror, Arsenal fans are expressing their displeasure on social media, referencing Gillett’s controversial decisions in their season opener against Wolves.
In that match, Wolves defender Yerson Mosquera grabbed Arsenal’s Kai Havertz by the throat, yet Gillett chose not to send him off, and VAR did not intervene either, which frustrated both fans and players.
The controversy surrounding the referee’s selection comes at a time when Arsenal are already facing significant challenges.
Key midfielders Martin Odegaard and Mikel Merino are sidelined with injuries, and Declan Rice will miss the derby after receiving a red card during Arsenal’s recent 1-1 draw with Brighton.
Tottenham are going to go into the game hoping to take advantage of Arsenal’s depleted squad and secure a crucial win in the first derby of the season.
The clash is set to be a fiery one, and all eyes will be on Gillett as he handles the pressure of officiating such a high-pressure encounter.
